Variations on the rostral labial pivot flap for reconstruction of maxillary lip defects in four dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the technique and outcome of a rostral labial pivot flap variant in dogs. ANIMALS: Four dogs with rostral lip/paranasal defect underwent rostral labial pivot flap. STUDY DESIGN: Short case series. METHODS: Rostral lip and paranasal defects with concurrent nasal mucosal involvement resulting from tumor resection were reconstructed using the rostral labial pivot flap and its variants, including incorporation of a mucosal island flap ± nasal rotation flap for modification of lip heights. Medical records were reviewed for all dogs that underwent tumor resection followed by reconstruction with a rostral labial pivot flap technique and its modifications. RESULTS: The rostral labial pivot flap and its variants provided acceptable outcomes in four dogs for reconstruction of rostral lip and paranasal defects. Incorporation of a mucosal island flap was effective for nasal mucosal reconstruction, and use of a nasal rotation flap to reduce tension and address lip height discrepancy resulted in acceptable outcomes. Two dogs experienced minor complications, including an oronasal fistula and mild narial stenosis, neither of which was associated with clinical signs. All dogs were considered to have normal function and quality of life at follow-up. CONCLUSION: The rostral labial pivot flap can be a reasonable and adaptable option for reconstruction of rostral lip and paranasal defects in dogs. Acceptable cosmetic and functional outcomes with low morbidity were observed in this series; however, additional cases are needed to better define success rates and complications.